Cybertruck finally gets Tesla's FSD, but there's a catch

Cybertruck, the electric vehicle that looks like it rolled straight out of a science fiction film, is finally receiving a long-awaited feature: Tesla's ambitiously named Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. This comes nearly a year after the first Cybertrucks hit the road in November 2023, leaving early adopters wondering when they'd get to experience the advanced driver-assist system.

The Cybertruck's unique design presented challenges for Tesla in adapting its FSD software, which relies on a suite of cameras to navigate roads. Unlike Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y, which share similar dimensions and sensor placements, the Cybertruck required significant software modifications to accommodate its unconventional shape and size.

Initially, Tesla sold the Cybertruck with the promise of FSD capability, but with a caveat: the software would be activated at a later date. Now, that time has finally arrived, albeit with a catch. Only a select group of Cybertruck owners enrolled in Tesla's early access program have received the FSD update, leaving many others still waiting. Thankfully, Tesla has indicated that a wider release is planned in the coming weeks.

The update, labeled FSD 12.5.5, is the latest version of the software and allows the Cybertruck to navigate roads with minimal driver intervention. However, it's important to note that FSD is still considered a Level 2 driver-assist system, meaning drivers must remain attentive and ready to take control at any moment.

The Cybertruck's FSD debut comes on the heels of another recent update that added auto park capabilities earlier this month. Tesla had promised full FSD functionality for the Cybertruck by the end of September, and while this initial release to a select group technically meets that deadline, most owners will have to wait a bit longer.

Looking ahead, Tesla plans to further enhance FSD with the release of version 13 next month. This update aims to improve the system's reliability and reduce the frequency of required driver interventions. Currently, independent analysis suggests that FSD requires driver intervention every 13 miles on average.

Tesla also has plans to expand FSD availability to China and Europe in the first quarter of next year, pending regulatory approval. However, navigating the regulatory landscape in these regions could present challenges and potentially delay the rollout.

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